The Glorious Dead was released last week, and it’s been somewhat of an Odyssey getting here. Readers of previous posts will remember that before publication the novel has battled grief, death, and monsters (well, in the form of serious illness).

Yet, it emerged nevertheless as a fully formed novel set in a vividly imagined world populated with wonderful characters. On the page, these protagonists grew, gained energy and acquired distinct personalities, not least because they’ve all endured difficult times.

So, you’d think the novel would be dark, cynical, and depressing. On the contrary, after what they’ve been through, my characters are overjoyed to find themselves in this story. In fact, they revel in it.

Nordheim is the perfect sandbox for them to play, fight, love, run, hide; whatever they want to do. And they do all these things.

Occasionally, I struggle with their behaviour, but when they explain their motivations to me, I can at least understand, if not fully condone.

Others delight me with their steadfastness, their humanity, and their humour.

And then there is Flint. He’s something else. Someone you just can’t work out. I don’t know how he expects to get away with all the things he does. The scheming, the shirking, the thievery, oh yes, and all those murders.

‘And when exactly did General McAvoy meet his end?’ Flint asked.

Steele said, ‘oh, I don’t know Flint, how about in twenty minutes time? He should be asleep by then.’

Flint aside, I enjoy sharing my time with these characters, and I think you will too.

Four more reasons to read The Glorious Dead

1. There’s no magic
   Nordheim is roughly analogous to medieval Europe. Which means there’s no magic fairy dust to save you from its many dangers. Wars have to be fought, hand to hand, steel to steel. Enemies have to be dealt with. Wits have to be lived on and mud has to be wiped clean afterwards.
2. Things don’t start as you’d expect
   Nordheim is the greatest power in the Northern Hemisphere, but war is its largest asset. Its king has turned killing into an economic necessity, murder is its most valuable export.
3. Things don’t end as you’d expect
   Not all my characters make it to the end. Despite my efforts to steer them in the right direction I can’t prevent them from blundering into dangerous situation where even the writer can’t help them.
4. Book signings
   If you find me in the wild, I’ll happily sign your copy. I’m always up for coffee in Cambridge, and I’ll be in London soon for some important industry events (Pharma Integrates in November, SAE Pre-Filled Syringes in January). If you see me, bring my book, and we’ll talk it through over a martini or two.